Whilst Ford’s 7.3 Powerstroke engine is crowned with “one of the most reliable” pickup trucks, it wouldn’t have been possible without its steadfast ICP sensors. Needless to say, your pickup truck will tragically be susceptible to detrimental effects if the ICP sensor failure symptoms go unattended. So, before your truck goes numb, what are the common 7.3 Powerstroke ICP sensor failure symptoms?
The most common symptoms of the 7.3 Powerstroke ICP sensor failures include engine troubles like not starting at all, misfiring, rough idling, and even internal issues like fuel filter leaks, decreased performance, and so on. Both mechanical and engine issues can give off symptoms caused by ICP failure.
Regardless of the symptoms, if you know why and when these happen, you can prevent damage to your heavy-duty truck. To know the symptoms in-depth, and all the do’s and don’ts, keep your eyes locked till the end of this article.
5 Most Common 7.3 Powerstroke ICP Sensor Symptoms
ICP sensors are notoriously important, as they constantly read the levels of oil pressure prevalent in the High-Pressure Oil Pump or HPOP system. So, if your 7.3 Powerstroke heavy-duty truck acts funny, it’s highly likely that the ICP sensor failures are about to go down. Be wary of these common symptoms which include-
#1. The Engine Doesn’t Start at All
Imagine your truck cranking constantly and not being able to get that engine to start. This exact scenario is one of the most common symptoms that you’ll come across when there’s a 7.3 Powerstroke ICP sensor failure.
You’ll notice even though you’ve turned the keys several times, your car engine still won’t give away even the hope of starting, let alone running.
The reason why this happens is-
- Since diesel engines do not have ignition systems, the engines do not create sparks but instead, stop completely.
- Proper ignition requires a finely tuned fuel mixture, which if not present or ongoing, the ICP sensors fail to run smoothly and in turn causes the engine to not start at all.
- Lastly, if the ICP fails to send computer signals to the injectors, the following situation takes place.
#2. Engine Suddenly Stops Running
No matter what you say, when the engine stops suddenly in the middle of the road, the rage is 2x more than the time when it doesn’t start at all. You’ll notice your truck will go smoothly for a while and then take a sudden shift of stutters and then suddenly stop running.
This symptom is caused for a handful of reasons, which is-
- A blocked fuel injector, happens when there’s moisture or oxidation in the fuel injection system.
- Clogged fuel pump filled with dirt and debris.
- Gas cap with faulty pipes.
- IDB detects electrical issues on the injector, which fails to send signals to the ICP sensors.
Luckily when this happens, your engine warning light will turn on and automatically activate the horns. As a result, if you’re in the middle of the road, you can call for assistance.
#3. Engine Light Turns on or Internal Computer Shows Error Codes
One of the most crystal clear indications of ICP sensor failure is that your engine light will flicker or turn on. Although engine lights might turn on for other issues, it’s not unforeseen that the ICP sensor failure issue might be one of them.
On the other hand, you may notice error codes showing up on your computer system. However, If the code p1211 DTC shows up, it clearly means there are some issues with ICP. Either-
- The oil pressure is too high
- Or the engine is possibly not getting the required oil pressure.
#4. Engine Misfires or Vibrates Terribly
Faulty ICP sensors are infamous for creating engine misfires. However, you can also come across terrible vibrations, which is also a warning sign of ICP sensor failure.
Misfiring or terrible vibrations can happen for-
- Loose or toggled wiring
- Electrical links that have remained broken for a good amount of time.
- Thrown-off fuel mixture
These same cases can even cause a loss in fuel economy and slow down acceleration, which are also some 7.3powerstroke ICP sensor failure symptoms.
#5. RPM Jumps Up and Down: Rough Idling
If you observe rough idling right after you start your 7.3 Powerstroke diesel engine truck, it’s likely caused by faulty ICP sensor failure.
You’ll notice, the ride won’t feel very smooth and the RPM will jump from high or low or somewhere between 600 RPM. Meanwhile, if even the engine temperature fluctuates after you start the engine and causes a rough idle, then it’s an indication of ICP sensor failure.
#6. Drastic Decrease in Power or Performance
Another common symptom you can come across while riding a 7.3 Powerstroke is a drastic decrease in power or performance. In cases like this, you’ll notice your truck is running way less efficiently and doesn’t produce enough energy.
These symptoms can be noticed for-
- Broken parts
- Worn-out or damaged components
- Insufficient fuel-injection.
Poor fuel consumption is also a result of ICP sensor failure, which can be noticed when there’s a major downfall in the 7.3 Powerstroke’s performance.
What to Do if You Face 7.3 Powerstroke ICP Sensor Failure?
Don’t worry if the symptoms are drastic, as there’s always a solution. However, firstly you should-
Inspect and Diagnose–
- If the engine stalls, misfires, stops, or doesn’t start, you can use the diagnostic engine tools, or check the engine code reader for reading error codes.
- Check whether or not oil oozes out of the sensor. If you open the hood of the ICP sensor and see oil oozing out, be certain there’s an ICP sensor failure.
- Check for broken parts near the ICP sensors.
- Check the color of the ICP coolant regularly. If there are bubbles, your ICP is faulty.
how much does it cost to Repair or Replace ICP Sensor?
Usually, with ICP sensor failure issues, there’s no going back. However, if there are wire issues, engine misfiring, or rough idling, you should take your truck to a professional technician and he will fix it for you.
On the other hand, when there’s a drastic situation where ICP sensors have gone bad, there’s no other way than to replace them. If you want to avoid future problems, replacing is the way to go. Replacements might cost you anywhere from $120-$140.
ford ICP Sensor related (FAQs)
What causes a 7.3 to start hard?
When there’s an ICP sensor failure in the system, the engine is not at its best and starts to act very rough. This rough condition can wreak havoc on the throttle and even the wires. As a result, even the oil efficiency lessons and in turn causes the truck to not start properly.
What does P2285 mean?
The P2285 is one of the error codes that shows up on the computer screen when the 7.3 Powerstroke engine detects low ICP levels. That means, you see this code when your fuel injection system isn’t working properly.
What does an ICP sensor do?
ICP sensors are essential for any diesel engine truck as they determine the oil pressure levels that should be injected into the fuel chambers. Without proper ICP sensors, Ford Powerstroke will not exert optimal performance.
Ford Powerstroke 7.3 ICP sensor-Easiest way to diagnose it! >> Check out the video below:
Final Words
If you’re not aware of the 7.3 Powerstroke ICP sensor failure symptoms, it’s very likely that your beloved truck can soon meet its demise. However, hopefully, it’s not going to happen anymore if you’re well aware of the risks, causes, and of course the directions.
Despite all the possible issues, if you make sure to inspect and diagnose properly as we mentioned, then there’s a high chance you can save your truck from potential power drainage. Follow these guides, be vary of the symptoms and drive worry-free just like you used to!
Here are other powerstroke related articles links you might like:
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